Showdown: 2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 vs Yamaha Ténéré 700

[@turbolag5107]

Oh and for the people out there that own the Aprilia go to the dealership and get your ECU updated it should be the update 106. It makes the bike feel much more responsive down low and gets rid of any weird engine stutter at around 4,000 RPM

[@Motovibes91]

Last week I bought a Tenere 700. I'm coming from road bikes (Tracer 900GT, naked bikes etc) and the Tenere is unbelievably good at everything. Slow speed, offroad, onroad. It's so damn easy to ride, really incredible motorcycle engineering. The lack of tech is a huge plus for reliability. And the sound of that CP2 is🔥🔥

[@pedromatos5918]

I have bought my 1 month ago...and i m in love with this yamaha t7!!! Almost all the bikes i had were gor roads...susuki gsxr6 ..yamaha r6...only off road was a hondaxr6 some years ago.... this T7 is so good on the roads and gives you so much liberty!! Keep safe!!

[@fleshpie2129]

do not lie to yourself, tuareg is much better in every way

[@ChrisSauer-oe5ve]

@@fleshpie2129🤣🤣

[@bonkurwengler6339]

Both bikes are exactly what I was looking for in downsizing from a 600+ lb Triumph Tiger. The electronics package was the decider for me. Reliability was not an issue to me as my last Aprilia was stellar after 20K+ miles (though it did have a Rotax engine..) . What will be a decider for many riders is the dealer network. I',m lucky enough to have 4-5 dealers within 100 miles. Most folks, not so much.... I've had my Tuareg for 3 months now and I absolutely LOVE it!

[@captainamerica9353]

Well, it's a combo of the sparse dealer network, parts availability and trouble with electronics and/or engines, I think. I live in northern WI but have 2 dealers near Minneapolis so location is not a huge deal. Some states don't even have a dealer!! I bought a Beta last year, it's great, parts are sent from California and dealers are expanding, heck I now have one only 75 miles away. I'm getting too old for an RSV but wouldn't mind a Tuono or Tuareg someday.

[@Crashlewis1]

I’m pulling the trigger on the Tuareg at the end of the month. I’m in central Oregon and thankfully a dealer just opened up in Portland about 3 hrs away. Thankfully I have a mechanic in town that specializes in European bikes so I’ll have a local lifeline. Closest triumph dealer to me is roughly the same distance but that didn’t stop me from buying my tiger explorer!

[@JRHighmore]

You ever ride two up? Wondering how it handles with 2 people.

[@VARider1]

Glad I bought the Tuareg over the Tenere. Rode the WYBDR on the 660 and it did everything it needed too; even Section 4 solo!

[@robertrscott]

Me too, Tuareg is amazing!

[@lazy-pilot]

Spoiler Alert… Not surprised you both chose the Tuareg. I’ve also ridden both and I made the same decision and now own a Tuareg. I’ve been stacking up off-road miles with most of my on-road miles on mountain pass twisties and I am completely satisfied with the performance of the Tuareg. I can confirm that elimination of the catalytic converter with the full aftermarket exhaust completely resolves the “heat bubble” issue being discussed. Replacing the header alone would have resolved the issue but I went with a full Arrow exhaust with the Sonora model muffler and it’s just a beautiful sounding machine. I’ve pushed it hard off-road on day trips, and I’ve put both tires into the air regularly; when you start to push the suspensions really hard is where the Tuareg really pulls away from the Tenere. I bottomed out Tenere numerous times and I can’t seem to find the bottom on the Tuareg, it’s so forgiving and smooth and there’s way more adjustability to fine tune it to the rider. The slipper clutch really makes the Tuareg friendly in slow technical and much easier to manage if you have to get rolling again after an unplanned pause down technical terrain. Very happy with my Aprilia. I’ll be doing the expert sections of the WYBDR myself in about 30 days.

[@mikegregas5484]

I also have the taureg and will be heading to Wyoming in two weeks maybe hook up?

[@jasonscott5043]

Go ahead and get a garmin inreach too. You’ll need it in a year or two.

[@osimnod]

Excellent ride review. Kudos to the cameraman for riding along getting great shots and drone video!

[@phillipbatho3213]

Maybe this video will steer some people toward the Aprilia, that way the ones who want a Ténéré won't have to wait so long to get one!

[@dougiequick1]

Wont have to wait behind me either I hold it against Yamaha for holding back options on the 700 platform Its all their marketing ploys they do NOT want any CP2 models to have cool stuff like quick shifter and cruise control because it would screw up the psychology for upselling buyers to CP3 and higher end ...So even though it might not impact the adv line they still cant/wont give it to Tenere (same motor) while at same time claiming BS reasons it cant be had on MT07/Tracer 7/R7 They so badly want buyers to want that stuff enough they finally spring for MT09 or 10 or tracer 9gt etc ...all the models costing thousands more than CP2 powered low tier stuff Face it the Tenere is somewhat the crippled victim of being a pricepoint child deprived of premium suspension and optional cool features...I would have loved to hear the corporate infighting over that model (probably a main reason it took FOREVER to come out!)....marketing types do NOT love motorcycles (that is the engineers) they only want to sell as much whatever as possible for as much money as possible...they will fu*k anything up that gets in their way too you better believe it...those type folks tend to have pea brains and not much imagination

[@phillipbatho3213]

@@dougiequick1 Cool story you made up in your head. Alternate take:. The CP2 is so tractable and forgiving that it doesn't need TC, or other "cool features". It's an engine that puts out power that the rear tire can handle in a very predictable way. Some people don't really want a motorcycle that just works well though, they want do-dads and "cool features". If you want premium suspension, go buy it. The stock suspension works great for the majority of riders, for whom paying for "premium" parts would be a waste. If you can't understand that not everyone wants bling to show off in the Starbucks parking lot, then go buy something else and shut up.

[@dougiequick1]

@@phillipbatho3213 wow its like I said something about your wife and kids lol....they are just motorcycles dude ...btw even the reviewers gigged the T7 for lacking the electronics...ANYONE would appreciate cruise control and really there I see no reason not to OFFER things as extras...a cheaper base models for guys that hate technology or lack extra money and then option packages for everyone else...I just think Yamaha loses a ton of sales to other manufacturers like KTM who's 890 kicks butt on Tenere in most areas...but hey you love it so good on you

[@phillipbatho3213]

@@dougiequick1 ”I hold it against Yamaha for holding back options..." Followed by 200+ word diatribe. Followed by "they're just motorcycles dude ". 🙄 Sorry, I didn't know only you should voice your opinion. 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@Devastator123]

The 660 is super legit

[@prathapsingh5195]

Tuareg is great; i know it has plenty power even in lowe rpm.. i never stalled it once during my offroad miles similar to what you tried in this video. Its suspension is well balanced, fantastic on road and offroad.

[@Krutchin]

What a tour! Just beautiful, the bikes too... I've tested the Tuareg, so I can say it's an amazing bike. Durability - I hope it is, because it doesn't excuse the price otherwise.

[@durtkillon]

Thanks for putting this together, gents! Either of these bikes would put a smile on my face. It’s the sweet spot for me in ADV.

[@brayvdb2191]

Really hope Honda brings something worthy of this to the table when they reveal the Transalp

[@nikos-giorgos]

I'm pretty sure they won't.

[@LooxJJ]

Kawasaki is coming with 700cc adv soon.

[@davidnobular9220]

@@LooxJJ If the 2022 KLR weighs around 220kg (depending on spec), then will this new bike weigh over 250kg, keeping the Land Whale tradition alive ?

[@LooxJJ]

@@davidnobular9220 I find 220~250kg about appropriate for ADV bikes...if it is for dual-purpose, I agree that it should be lighter. But having those weight gives a good stability in long range rides (with big fuel tank, oversized frames, and heavier trans for reliability). For adv bikes, weight really dont matter as long as its 250kg~ish...what matters more is reliability (in my opinion!!)

[@davidnobular9220]

@@LooxJJ Ideally for me, I'd like to see a 750 twin that is relatively light, say 190-200kg dry, decent suspension, 24cm+ and a decent range. Oh, and before people say KTM.....I want it to specifically be Japanese, with minimal Nanny State electronics. As you say, reliability is important. A man can dream, a man can dream.....

[@gordonshaw6231]

Great video, bought the aprila 2 weeks ago and loving it, it’s a slight engine stumble but I am told the ecu update corrects this. Looking forward to touring some more Javanese mountains

[@robertrscott]

Great video guys! I went with the Tuareg and have no regrets at all, great bike!

[@robertrscott]

@@NMS.SuperDuper So far Garmin Zumo XT, OEM Aprilia Heated Grips, Oem Aprilia Quickshifter, and I'm waiting on the OEM Aprilia crash bars and fog lamps. Also there has been two dashboard updates from factory Aprilia since the bikes release in USA and they have improved the riding experience even further.

[@keyboarddancers7751]

This is the comparison review we've all needed.

[@boomcity4942]

That was a great review. I like that you spoke english and I didn’t have to do metric conversions. Having two opinions from two people with different levels age groups is valuable. My biggest concern before watching was about the heat from the Tuareg and you covered that well. I live in cooler climate and am 66 years old, so the heat from the Tuareg will feel good on my feet. I grew up in Phoenix, Az and worked many hours on hot roofs in the middle of the summer, so I should feel at home on the Tuareg. Thanks for the great review. I didn’t hear any swearing, it sounded more like whining.

[@MichaelShaw206]

Enjoyed the comparison and the points of view between two riders with different skill levels. I went with the Tuareg 660 and really enjoy it. Having had to change tire tubes, having tubeless wheels is a blessing. They say luxuries soon become necessities and the cruise control is that for me. I've done the Washington BDR on a Yamaha WR250R but had to truck the bike to the start and finish. Both the T7 and the Tuareg allow you to ride away from your driveway for the few hours of highway to get to the trail. I'll be doing parts of the BDR again in September and enjoy the flexibility of the middle-weight adventure bike versus a lighter (which is great on the technical stuff) but uncomfortable dual-sport. I'd be tempted by the World Raid T7 but I doubt I'll ever see one at a dealer anytime soon. Keeping my fingers crossed that the Aprilia holds up as I was a real Yamaha fanboy, yet as an old guy, the Tuareg is a better package for me. If it leaves me stranded .....

[@gavinmiller1998]

Well, has it left you stranded yet? As someone with an MT07 I’m hard pressed to upgrade to the “same bike” and I really want cruise control lol

[@MichaelShaw206]

@@gavinmiller1998 Not yet! Really enjoy the cruise control. But, I'm having a change of heart about the middle-weight versus the lighter bike. Perhaps, I'm just looking for justification to buy another bike, which is likely true.

[@gavinmiller1998]

@@MichaelShaw206 leaning more towards like a 390 adventure? My friends and I all took our street bikes (MT-07, FZ-09,CBR650f) and tore down some state park roads and trails and it was a blast, just trying to gauge the best bike to really go after it is, but not of the small bikes five you cruise control

[@andrewtreloar7389]

Michael, 2 months on, any issues with the Aprilia?

[@MichaelShaw206]

@@andrewtreloar7389 None, but I have decided to sell it. Amazing bike, but I prefer my lighter CRF450L for offroad and about town.

[@Omidism1]

Thank you so much for your honest review of these two great bikes.

[@kaykay8686]

Great, great video! I've been watching you guys for a long time, and this one was awesome! Well done! I especially loved the input from a non-expert rider in the dirt. Getting info. from a pro is not always beneficial for the "average" rider who will never reach the level of a pro. Thanks!

[@ts-cj2ym]

Got the Tuareg over Tenere. It was the tech, top heavy and the height that did it. Both great bikes!

[@hock4540]

Great video that shows the spectrum of riding abilities off road, more than a bike review. The best thing for new "off road" riders is to get a lightweight dual sport or dirt bike and learn to trust the bike at speed.. Going slow kills momentum and now you are into clutching, feathering the throttle, trying to balance and put your foot down, etc, etc. Give it some gas, let it roll, stay on the pegs, let the tires and suspension soak up the bumps and stop trying to fight the bike. Being on a small bike helps with this as you don't fear breaking things and less power and weight to control starting. Once you can speed through the woods on a dirt bike, you are ready for a road bike or ADV bike to do both. Times 10 if you are older than 40 as everything gets harder, I know. These videos always look amazing, but off road is work, less if you know how to ride it properly.

[@hailwood900]

@hock4540 Great comment. At 62 yrs old, lifetime of bikes, but limited in dirt. Learned on a KLX300R, (awesome in the woods), DR650 (all the mods but still too heavy for trails) and now 350 EXCF (absolutely stupendous for tight trails.). The biggest improvement I've make in technique was when my son the off-road racer taught me how to modulate the clutch. It's not a car. Slipping it is normal... Stalling a bike is a clue that you need to practice this technique. That plus standing up most of the time. Ok, now I want to do BDR's, and the 350 is no highway machine. A 450 pound bike, prior to luggage is pretty heavy. I wish for the 375/400 pound machine. Why is this not possible? If a dirt bike is 250, there seems like pretty of budget to make an adventure bike with 125 extra pounds. Yes, I know the 690, but not sure about highway... Still no perfect bike!

[@brucerossonthetube]

Have really missed your videos as of late! I hope there are more to come.

[@speedfinder1]

I rode both on a 3 hour, each motorcycle, test day. I ordered the Tuareg due to it's more "beginner friendly power delivery" and general ease of riding. Both were awesome and the Tenere would probably have won out if my own skills were up to the challenge.

[@kloppskalli]

"beginner friendly power delivery" = less power ... you get used to the power very quickly. There's also bigger front sprockets that can tame the Tenere and save quite a bit fuel at highway speed

[@MarkiMotoYT]

@@kloppskalli but the tuareg has more power..

[@shanechambers9529]

@@MarkiMotoYT and also less torque..

[@redcisco8579]

​​@@shanechambers9529 the 660 has more torque. T7 has 50 ft lbs and the 660 has 52 ft lbs. The T7 builds it's torque lower in the RPM range, but the 660 is more powerful, by a very slim margin, overall in both horsepower and torque

[@igioz]

the clutch on Tuareg is sooooo smooth you can partialize every single Nm of torque, beatiful

[@GMan38cal]

They did show the price for the blue Tuareg at $12599. That's $600 more than the standard red or yellow versions. I think they would have really raved about the Tuareg if they got a flat tire on each of the bikes. No mention of tubeless wheels on the Aprilia.

[@bamills6771]

Its $130 to convert the T7 wheels to Tubeless. I did it 10 months ago.. Zero Issues.

[@jonr3891]

@@bamills6771 Hi. Did you use a kit for your tubeless conversion, or DIY (silicone, tape etc?) I’m interested in converting my spoked Rally Raid wheels. Thx for any info.

[@bamills6771]

@@jonr3891 i went with the kit - off Ebay- from Japan. it only took 4 days to get. Its the same kit that woodies sold in the USA.

[@jonr3891]

@@bamills6771 …is it the Outex kit? Thx

[@bamills6771]

@@jonr3891 yes.. the trick is sanding the skoke nipples smooth so the inside of the rim is flat.

[@QueEstaPasando_YT]

Made me want to try the Tuareg now..Nice video guys!

[@teags603]

I had a deposit on a Tenere, and it was going to be a year before I could get one. Ended up pulling the deposit and picked up a Tuareg and I don't regret it one bit! The Tuareg has been awesome both on and off road. I very highly recommend the Tuareg and am glad I picked it up.

[@jasonscott5043]

There will always be that nagging feeling though.

[@billslicer3203]

Now that’s a comparison. Good job guys

[@erocnw1341]

Surprising outcome given the T7 is such the it bike of the moment. A 2000 mile trip through all types of terrain with an expert and beginner rider is a great way to thoroughly test these bikes.

[@raould2590]

Spectacular! Enjoyed it. Thank you for this. It's nice to see a grounded, real-world take on adventure riding and not the superhuman style go-anywhere one. Always enjoy your reviews. Entertaining and informative.

[@jasonscott5043]

There was no mention of durability, maintainability and parts / service availability. Aren’t those important things to consider?

[@nokneedownian8521]

What an amazing trip and what an amazing country America is

[@FRv4S]

really well done video..good shots, good conversation, and good bikes!

[@SmokinZen]

Well wonder how the new World Raid Tenere compares but the bottom line is a Yamaha is a Yamaha and peace of mind is a big deal off-road

[@davidpearce859]

You guys always do a great real world yet in-depth review so thanks again. I know that the Norden 901 exists in the next category up but I would love to see a similar real world comparo between it and the “winner” of this comparo as these two bikes are on top of my short list. Cheers from down under! Dave

[@sverremoe4087]

Duke 890 adventure is the best...

[@davidpearce859]

@@sverremoe4087 Thanks for your opinion Sverra.

[@bretthawton]

I really enjoyed the contrast in rider skills for the off road sections since I'm looking at transitioning to a lightweight adventure bike.

[@domenik8339]

pssst check out the Honda Cb500x. Everybody forgets about it, and it's not for everyone, but it really is a mini africa twin.

[@bretthawton]

@@domenik8339 it's definitely not a mini African Twin. It's a heavy street bike with limited ground clearance and minimal suspension travel.

[@domenik8339]

@@bretthawton It weighs 30 lbs more than these two bikes you're researching. . . . well trying to research anyway.

[@tbgtbg6311]

Yep, electronics are my first concern for adventure riding. I want as many options as possible for things to break down.

[@jbb3675]

They've been out for long enough that there's very little need for concern.

[@vice7881]

even if electronics break down, the bike is still riding. so no issue at all.

[@davidleonard8369]

@@vice7881I’m guessing that you’ve never had the pleasure of trying to ride an adventure bike in sand when the traction control shits The bed and can’t be turned off. Pretty damn inconvenient when you’re motorcycle literally won’t move. Thank god for the Yamaha Tenere 7 and a tow rope.

[@cowmath77]

🙄

[@FRv4S]

Love this format. A story that has a comparison!!!

[@easybutton333333]

I ride a Tenere and thought you all did an excellent and fair analysis of both bikes. THANKS!! If Apriullia can put more bikes in showrooms than Yamaha I believe they will sell extremely well:):)

[@MeerkatADV]

The reserve on the Tenere is 1.1 gallons. I was actually only a couple days behind you guys. Ended up getting chased by weather most of the route.

[@sanatandharma4435]

Beautiful presentation gentlemen! Both great bikes, but I also would take the taureg!

[@patricksandeberg8184]

Sturgis ➡️ LA! Now that’s an off-road adventure!

[@gabrielkopp2036]

I had considered the toureg..as we all know aprillia is not know for reliability (the reason for lack of dealerships) 600 dollars more for the blue? Cost of ownership and longer service intervals is the main reason I went with the tenere and don't regret it.. and for those who prefer the toureg..it is a decent bike..just enjoy what ever bike you choose and keep em shiny side up!!

[@duncanelliott5120]

Fantastic film. Thanks guys

[@rench55]

Excellent comparison. Well done! As a primarily street rider, and wanting to get into ADV, I appreciate the points of view.

[@RollinwithRoland]

Check out some of the off-road riding coaches out there on KZbin if you haven't already. I personally like Bret Tkacs and Chris Birch.

[@krob-sn7ek]

Just do it !!! Adv is my 70's flashback !! Too good be safe and go explore now

[@paul.vanhout57]

Entertaining and well done review and ride👍

[@pinnacleroofing9841]

I own both bikes currently. Taureg shines - in height (for me), suspension, giddyup / power, modes (if you're into that). T7 shines in - low end torque on the steep, slow, rocky stuff. toughness, I have beat the dogsh!t out of it and it takes all very well, Wind protection, Lack of electronics (i like that), no heat on my legs (taureg puts out too much heat), T7 is much narrower. Muffler bracket is a problem on both. The Taureg has a lot of shitty parts (kickstand bracket, shifter and brake pedals, lack of quality protection options, everything is exposed). In the end, with all the benefits of the Taureg, I still like the T7 better, I can't put my finger on why.

[@212driller]

I'll take reliability over almost anything else any day. Yes it would cost more for an aftermarket seat on the tenere but I think that would be the glaring issue for me. Someday I'd like to have a tenere 700.

[@iangriffiths9930]

100% agree, the Yamaha has proven reliable, I also don’t ride long distance so the cruise control doesn’t really matter to me, I think I prefer more simple bikes anyway as there is less to worry about and there normally cheaper so more money to spend actually ridding the bike. I think the Yamaha will be hard to beat for price but also reliability performance and so far at least more aftermarket parts

[@nikos-giorgos]

@@iangriffiths9930 How is there "less to worry" on a bike with tubed tyres?

[@Rob-tl9md]

3k on my toureg. zero issues. I will let you know when I get to 10k. I have owned 4 aprilia's. Zero reliability issues with any of them. My last one had 45k when I sold it.

[@jbb3675]

@@iangriffiths9930 I've had 6 Aprilias. Every single one was bulletproof. I even rode my '07 SR50 R Factory from Edmonton to Toronto, 3k kms in 5 days down highway 1, 11-12k rpm for 10 hours each day and not a single issue. It's the Italian Honda... But pretty!

[@fleshpie2129]

had it for a season, 15000km later I sold it

[@twowheeledadventuresuk2739]

My local dealer is a Yam/Aprilia dealer, in over a year they haven't sold a single Tuareg. I went down there to look at both bikes, but i knew I was going to pick the T7 as I just love the look of it, can't stand either the front or rear lights on the Tuareg, but also there is very little after-market stuff out/available for the Aprilia to bling it into my bike. Love my T7, love the engine, it always puts a smile on my face, looks mean as with a bespoke decal kit and a few other bits - bits you ain't gonna find for the Tuareg!

[@JohnSmith-ef8nr]

In the UK the tuareg is being sold new for 9k, thats less than the price of a new T7 and thay still don't sell. There's only about 40 registered on uk roads, and I expect some are demo bikes.

[@durtkillon]

Aprillia is an uber niche brand in the US, but the Tuareg has got the attention of fellow ADV riders here in Colorado. The dealer in my town has been selling them the same day they come in, sight unseen and over the phone. I wouldn’t say no to either bike, but you are hard pressed to get either in this area for now. People are listing T700 for $14K on craigslist. Crazy. I’m happy to see more entries in this segment. I partial to the middle weight advs.

[@VogtJurgen]

Great production, well done and thanks

[@danwarren8010]

I've averaged 60mpg over the last 3000 miles of mixed riding on my Tenere. Love my bike, Oh and after a 9 month wait on back order the only color the one bike that came in was Raven Black, So glad it wasn't purple.

[@turbolag5107]

What's funny is I called a Yamaha dealership that also happened to be an Aprilia dealership and I originally called about the t7 but they said someone literally just put a deposit down on it an hour before I called. The guy goes have you heard of the Aprilia Tuareg and I said no and that I would check it out. I kind of chuckled a little bit and said doesn't have cruise control and he said yes and I said I was very interested. Fast forward less than a week after that conversation and I was riding one home.

[@heidicrnkovic6317]

Aprilia Tuareg 660 looks intriguing!

[@Victor_Moto]

Great review! Thanks guys.

[@RollinwithRoland]

Incredible scenery and content with an interesting decision at the end!!! "Get On ADV Fest" was ok, believe I enjoyed the 5,318.5 mile round-trip on my KTM 790 Adventure S from Naples, FL over 11 days a bit more than the actual event(2,253ish miles to the Buffalo Chip Gate in 2 Ironbutt Days). Though with the KTM leaking oil, I didn't want to ride off-road in such beautifully unspoiled areas... Maybe next year!

[@kevincrockett5155]

Leaking oil from where?

[@RollinwithRoland]

@@kevincrockett5155 from the main oil filter cap because WMR Performance in Stuart did not replace my O-rings with new ones after servicing my bike... After swinging by Apex in Colorado Springs on the way home and having them service the bike with new O-rings and oil, it did not leak a drop since then.

[@doublex632]

The o-rings I think are too thin, same on my KTM450, was leaking. I took the oring and replaced it with slightly bigger one, no more leaks.

[@ozadv]

Spent too much time on the pretty ride and not enough detail on the bikes IMO - no mention for example of the high weight on the T7 and how the Tuareg has the tank low under the airbox. And then that they both prefer the Tuareg came as a surprise as most of the way through they gave the opposite impression. Finally, I've ridden the T7 (fantastic bike) and own the Tuareg, and there's little difference in down low torque (check comparison dynos), certainly the suggestion you cannot easily kick out the rear is nonsense.

[@jayzee1968]

Amen.

[@UnicornMoto]

Agreed!!

[@Tom-op1pv]

Thank you. I rode them back to back as well and half of what they said was moto journalist bullshit. No mention of the Tenere clutch cover interfering with your right boot, vague front end on the road compared to the Tuareg, POWER IS MADE ALMOST IDENTICALLY. Cruise control and other electronics are a huge selling point and they barely focused on it. It’s like they kinda made shit up to strike differences

[@Tom-op1pv]

AND Tubeliss tires. The Tuareg makes you feel things when you ride it. T7 is a fine bike but they barely touched on the real differences. Drives me fucking nuts

[@rjlklr650]

Positives of Tuareg, cruise control, tubeless tires, and better seat. Positives of Yamaha proven reliability and many more dealers. Negatives of Tenere lack of availability and dealers not selling at MSRP.

[@paulvandervyver4223]

Aprilia has a serious contender in the Adventure market with the new Tuareg. It surely ticks a lot of boxes. My only concern is the long-term reliability, especially with all the electronics... it is going to be tough to beat the Yamaha's legendary reliability

[@kor2112]

I was in Centennial a few weeks ago, my uncle has a ranch there. I didn’t have my bike, we where fly fishing mostly. But I am planning on going there next summer to hit some of the BDR.

[@MyBridgestone24]

T7 owner and I love that bike. I had a Tuono 1100 at one point as well and it was too refined/pretty, which may sound nuts, but I don’t mind dropping my T7 or getting it filthy. My now Ducati (Tuono replacement) largely sits in the garage for fair weather occasions. The T7 seems to have a no BS characteristic that encourages riders to push harder, dirtier, farther, crazier. I’m obviously biased but the Aprilia falls in to my ‘too nice’ bucket where I would be a more reserved rider fearing damage and an expensive repair bill. I suspect I’ll pass most sitting in the local coffee shop parking lot on my way to the trails.

[@theodoreberbach9562]

People eill be doubtful about italian reliability, but they kinda forgot the italian has given us some exceptional bike with pretty solid reliability as of late. Remember the Ducati Scrambler? Multistrada? Remember the MG V85TT? Yeah. I havent heard any complains about them at all. So i think most people here is just going off the old narrative

[@ridenm7748]

Not reliable and requiring a lot of maintenance are the same thing to a lot of ppl. I don't see why Guzzi or Aprilia should have issues. Desmos are not worth it if you put big miles on your bikes though.

[@anxiousappliance]

@@ridenm7748 a check every 18 - 20,000 miles? Not so tough.

[@ridenm7748]

@@anxiousappliance used to be 5-10k. I think Ducati is just extending the service interval without changing anything else. Kinda like minis with their 12k oil change intervals...

[@anxiousappliance]

@@ridenm7748 watercooled engines - more precise engineering.

[@ridenm7748]

​@@anxiousappliancemaybe a lil... Would be a good idea to check them at 10k at least imo

[@Picklerides]

I was thinking of going aprilia for a while also but for me, it's the lack of dealerships close by that scares me a bit. Usually with more electronics you get restricted access to turning off the service light without taking it to the dealer and stuff like that. Having the closest dealer 3+ hours away would be quite inconvenient. We have a Yamaha dealer about 40mins away so It's kind of a no brainer for me. Touareg is a nice bike though. It apparently doesn't feel as top heavy and has a lot of options but I am a simple guy who wants a simple bike from a dealer that is close lol. Great vid and good comparison!

[@kostasrestas]

what if we compare Tenere World Raid with Tuareg ?? what suspension is greater then ????

[@motorhead.indiee]

Even though none of these bikes are available in India right now, this was a great comparison. You don't breeze off a 35 min vlog so often. Thanks for this. P.S. if you like chalenging off-road terrains you should do an Indian episode of maybe Kaza-Manali via Chandratal. Man you will love it.

[@technotv3227]

Yeah, get run over by a truck coming on the wrong lane, or may be get hit by an over speeding car. Get your self, your dog and cat insured before going to India to ride. You have been warned.

[@ZERODOSI]

In India potrebbero andare in 15 su moto così! 😆

[@keithwhite7480]

I've heard a lot about where each bike carries it's weight. That the tenere seems top heavy and the tuareg feels like a much smaller bike because the center of gravity is low. How did you find it?

[@brianmartindale2221]

Excellent review

[@jimmelino3361]

Rode a T7 for 11k miles - downsized to a CRF450RL because off road the T7 felt top heavy. Does the Tuareg have a similar top heavy feel?

[@peterjones4621]

Thank you for the very well done review. I'm going to buy an Adventure bike this or next summer and I'm just beginning my research on the several bikes out there. I wasn't surprised the Tuareg 660 won due to other reviews I've seen. I'm still not ready to make a decision but I'm getting closer as I continue with my research of all the Adventure bikes. Ducati just came out with the DesertX which has excellent review thus far but one of the big cons is the $20,000 price tag and the maintenance is expensive. Thanks again for the excellent reviews and outstanding views of your trip, it looked like a lot of fun.

[@patandanna69]

Great video guys!

[@phatsmitty]

Important question: which bike will a person still be happy with 5 years down the road.....

[@jft7174]

Aprilia won’t be runnin

[@2wheels.are.better.than4]

@@jft7174 😂

[@michaelhayward7572]

The Yam.

[@robertrscott]

The Aprilia because it's not a technological dinosaur lol. 10 years down the road maybe the Yamaha but by then most would have a new bike.

[@elgringoec]

That is definitely an important question. I still ride a bike that's now 38 years old.

[@therollingpebble2138]

Nice countryside...curious to know what app you use to show the zoom in/out effect on the map locations....

[@YankiRides]

I spy a Chaseontwowheels at 2:32, along with the Pan America we had that week! The Tuareg is THE middleweight adv bike. just wish I had a dealer near us

[@HartyBiker]

I really wish the Tuareg had more availability here in Australia. It looks almost like a unicorn bike for me, but they're around $23k here (for reference, I have seen a KTM 890 Adventure R for $24,5k), and rare as rocking horse poo.

[@BrendonHart1]

Never had issues cornering the Tenere! Have so much fun in the twisties with it.......arms get sore on my GSXR1100......it is an 88 model though!

[@davidmallia628]

Much awaited comparison!

[@taoist63]

Great video, nice scenic landscape, thanks for making such a good brand comparison. I vote for the Aprilia Tuareg, beautiful motorcycle. Is it possible for you to send the route? We would love to come to the US and ride it.

[@brianh0000]

Yes please! I particularly would like to know about those S curves in the closing scene, on top of a ridge.. love to find that

[@philipshore6924]

You didn't mention the lower down fuel tank on the Aprillia. Is that because it wasn't noticeable once loaded with gear?

[@kloppskalli]

what do people think is goina break on the Aprilia? has anybody ever got stranded because of cruise control? or optional engine maps? its not like there's tons of other parts involved that the Yamaha doesnt have, am I wrong...?

[@pgkr67]

If Cc or tc stops working the bike will still run..

[@mart7404]

great review guys. What's the name of the lake in Wyoming you camped at? I initially was hoping to buy a Tenere after riding a friends. However, no availability made me reconsider and I ended up with the Tuareg. I really love this bike. Heat is an issue but maybe in cool climes it will be nice? I'm hoping an exhaust change some day might take care of that. Now, I need to point her up from my base in Colorado to that lake in Wyoming. Cheers

[@pyropunk137]

Lake Alexander. That was actually in the Uinta Wasatch NF in Utah.

[@georgenewman5860]

Nice comparison of the top two contenders to be my next bike. The bikes have their pros and cons, but either looks to be a great choice. For me the decision comes down to weighing the lower cost and expected reliability and longevity of the Yamaha versus the electronics, cruise control, fuel range and tubeless tires of the Aprilia. Hopefully within the next year I will have to make the decision...

[@j.g.7864]

I'm picking up a Tenere on Monday. Looked hard at the Tuareg, but the lack of a dealer network, parts availability, and unknown reliability were enough to steer me toward the Tenere.

[@georgenewman5860]

@@j.g.7864 Congrats, that would be exciting.! How was the sales experience, did you get a reasonable deal?

[@j.g.7864]

@@georgenewman5860 actually, I bought used, and got a great deal!

[@KingCast65]

Why didn't you pull the peg inserts the minute you got the bikes? I did with my Tiger 800 and I barely even go off road. I hate those things.

[@billslicer3203]

I’ve heard comments about the Tuareg putting off a Lot of heat. Since you guys went thru triple digits,what did you think?

[@EvansBrasfieldMotojournalist]

The heat bothered Ryan more than me, but it was noticeable. I’ve ridden V-Twin cruisers that put out ore heat, though.

[@grahamgillette5393]

These two may as well stayed home the Taureg is streets ahead of the T7 off road in every sense ,nothing more needs to be said

[@mattqueen8748]

What about riding into a head wind...did either bike have to be wrapped out to maintain hwy speeds?

[@robertosanchez4021]

Great review guys..., Thanks

[@RamblingRuters]

Can’t kick the rear end out on the Tuareg easily, false, as a Tuareg owner here in Arizona I have 5k miles so far put in the off-road mode, ATC-1 & its freaking blast!! Easily kick it out & work on stop pivot turns with confidence, I’ve had other ADV bikes but the Tuareg is much, much more confidence inspiring & handles so great, also took the crappy stock tires off for some Motoz Adventures & Dual Venture.

[@Firestorm637]

Middle weight bikes are where it’s at! Great horsepower, lighter weight vs big brothers, and less expense. Yamaha sells millions of motorcycles every year. Aprilia sells less than 50,000 motorcycles a year. To offer advanced products and fairly competitive pricing is amazing from small companies with higher overhead costs. Advanced electronics allow many more miles trouble free riding with early warnings of problem. You do not see too many newer type vehicles stuck on the side of the road. Plus service intervals are longer. Honda still wants every 4000 mile check up though. Many bikes need software updates not just oil changes

[@davidmallia628]

Agree on the verdict, but the next iteration of the Tuareg must solve the heat hotspot, and the failing gasket issue. Then, I would buy one.

[@ozadv]

If there's a failing gasket issue it must be exceedingly rare - I've not heard of it and I'm across all the forums.. heatspot is the catalytic converter and that can be resolved easily

[@baklcdcvdfv3434r4]

@@ozadv the gasket dosnt fail screws might not be tight enough by factory, i that rarely happens just torque the screws and wallah

[@mandingojojief7627]

And the mapping glitch.

[@chrislovett6120]

Great overall review, most people I’ve talked to they have owned the T7 were pretty unhappy with the suspension which seems to be the MO for Yamaha for a decade or so now.

[@klauss.2096]

Very cool Tour. Perfekt Bikes

[@richardsprings1414]

Thinking about trading my Africa twin on the new Aprilia 660 Touareg enjoyed your content thank you for all the hard work put in

[@sameermoto]

I did. Sold my AT and bought this today.

[@avocares]

I have a modified DR650 that I really like pushing hard on BDR style rides in the off-road sections. Am torn between putting more into the DR (modifying the engine, upgraded brakes, etc) or getting something new. How would someone who enjoys riding a 360lb light adventure bike hard through the fun stuff like one of these 450lb middle weight adventure bikes?

[@seanrmatic]

I'd say the difference where I noticed the weight most compared to a true dirt bike is in big hits, whoops, and watching high speeds over embedded rocks (rims are more likely ding carrying 460 lbs + luggage vs on a 240 lb 450. The middleweight ADV's are pretty competant over fire roads and slow rocky stuff (the smooth power delivery down low helps).

[@j.g.7864]

Mat, I picked up a T7 after doing the Idaho and Wyoming BDRs on my modded DR650, primarily for the smoother engine going to and from, and highway sections. So far, I've only had the T7 out on gravel roads and one more "sketchy" rutted and rocky two track. Oddly, it feels far more planted and stable than the DR --but it isn't fun to pick up. I've only practiced it so far, but it is a bit more hefty. On the highway, however? Huge difference. I rode 2.5 hours the other day, holding 70-75mph. Got off feeling great, rather than like I'd been holding on to a unbalanced washing machine stuck on high spin for over 2 hours!

[@TXLorenzo]

The CP2 motor on the Tenere is a fantastic torque monster. You can climb a wall while idling in 1st gear.

[@geraldmerkel7145]

Thank you, what an Awesome trip! Great comparison. Beautiful scenery included in this video. Tuareg has my vote since I have an entry into the #IRODETODAY Sweepstakes 😂 I grew up from the age of 10 riding dirt, raced motocross, continued trail riding but then evolved into street machines. I have 58 years riding experience and I would like to come full circle back into the Adventure Motorsickle experience. Middleweight for sure. Thx Again.

[@mattqueen8748]

How does the VStrom compare to these?

[@pdrhound]

Sorry if you covered this.... 1. How do you like the Hornet 2? 2. how many liters of storage including the back packs did you have? 3. How much luggage weight?

[@moza1080]

Brilliant trip really enjoyed :)

[@cyde01]

What about compared to the desert x???

[@Prestonesfpv]

Well, im not into tech and electronics and i like my things simple and agricultural so i guess il keep on loving my T7 👍

[@pgkr67]

Well tech or not tech. Both bikes has an Ecu, and if that dies your screwed.. If Tc or Cc fails, the bike will still run.. Dont worry..

[@michaelhayward7572]

I really fail to understand the need for electronics on a 70bhp bike...especially a RTW bike. Yam T7 all the way.

[@edithdriver2094]

Yeah but I’d rather plug a tire than change out a tube

[@cliftonsr]

If you get caught in the rain or slick roadways it helps and since the Tuareg makes 10 more HP and more torque than the T7 it will need those features at times. But I can see why it is not as important on the T7 cause it only makes 70bhp it might not need those features nearly as often.

[@jeffloucks2120]

@@edithdriver2094 And if you slice your tire to where a plug won't fix it?

[@tomarcher7520]

I understand the riders can't really opine on the overall reliability and serviceability of the bikes on a short tour, but for anyone that plans to do serious backcountry riding, that should be one of, if not the highest criteria on anyone's list. I ride solo in fairly remote areas and want to reduce the risk of breaking down as much as possible. With that, I think most people would agree the T7 is probably going to outperform the Aprilia over the long haul. I also don't see the need to the electronic aids on a bike like this, with 75 or so HP. The T7 power delivery is smooth throughout the range, so I don't need traction control, etc. The T7 isn't perfect by any means, but it's a solid performer and will keep up with the vast majority of riders' skills.

[@ComfyDadShoes]

Even with money not being an option, I gotta take the T7. Time is more important than $ and I don’t want to waste any of it broken down somewhere.